Russell Retter - partially orphaned when his mother, Luvina Black Retter, passed away. After living in north Dayton until he reached 18 Russell returned to the farm and became an important member of the community.

Jeannette Romania Eickhoff Retter - also orphaned, but by her Civil War veteran father, Nettie came to the farm at a young age to become Russell's housekeeper and eventually became his wife.

Harry Eickhoff - Nettie's brother was wounded in WWI service and never fully recovered from his service wounds. He lived at Retter Far, cared for by Nettie, and died at a young age.

Joe Marshall, Roy Myers and Bob Jenkins - sons-in-law of Russell and Nettie, all of whom survived U.S. Army service during WWII. Each found peace at the farm.

Welcome To Retter Farm

For more than 140 years Retter Farm has been home to members of our family. Over the years, descendents of John Black have lived here, worked here and loved this small farm located in extreme southeast Miami County, Ohio. Native American relics being found on the farm to this day tell us that many before us called it home. Strategically located near a prehistoric animal migration path that later became the National Road, Retter Farm has a confluence of small waterways, remains of rich hardwood forest and soils conducive to its agricultural use. Perhaps more importantly, the farm has been shelter and solace to many needing rescue from worldly woes. Visit us and learn the legacy that continues to define and guide our home.